FCC Launches Proceeding for Annual Report on the Deployment of Advanced Telecommunications Services

The Federal Communications Commission voted to kick off its annual review of the pace and cadence of broadband deployment. The Notice of Inquiry reorients the FCC’s approach to the Section 706 Report by adhering more closely to the plain language of the statute and takes a fresh look at this question of whether broadband “is being deployed to all Americans in a reasonable and timely fashion.” The Notice takes a technology neutral and holistic approach to evaluate the state of broadband availability and progress in closing the digital divide in the United States. The FCC seeks objective data and other evidence reflecting the state of broadband deployment and availability. The FCC will welcome input on new issues concerning the availability of broadband and will continue its focus on removing regulatory barriers to deployment, expansion, competition, and technological innovation in such services.